Women of Aviation Worldwide Week 2013 to focus on aerospaceMarch 4 through 10, 2013, are the dates of the upcoming Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, and organizers say the 2013 event will focus on opportunities for women in the aerospace industry. The theme ties in with the fiftieth anniversary of the first space flight by a woman, conducted by Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova on June 16, 1963. Free flights for women and girls, static displays at airports, and special guests are planned at numerous locations in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Find an event near you>>

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Get a universal checkout in CessnasCessna Aircraft has signed a deal with Chicago-based OpenAirplane to be an endorsed partner to the Cessna Pilot Center program. OpenAirplane offers universal checkout, which allows FBOs and flight schools to verify a pilot's qualifications and training easily in each make and model aircraft. And pilots gain access to a diverse fleet with a nationwide footprint without the expense and hassles normally associated with renting away from their home field. Read More>>

Cessna 206 Stationair This high wing airplane looks very similar to the Cessna 172 and Cessna 152 that are often used for flight training. The Cessna 206, however, outsizes the two trainers and can also be distinguished by its three-bladed propeller and six-place seating. The Cessna 206 is a good workhorse airplane, used to haul a load or travel on a trip with the entire family.

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Is there more than one type of pilot certificate?

Answer: While the private pilot certificate is the most common choice for students, there are two other options—the recreational pilot certificate and the sport pilot certificate. Most students select a certificate based on their budget, the type of flying they plan to do, and the aircraft they want to fly. The privileges and limitations of each certificate also should be considered. To find the pilot certificate that is right for you, check out the comparison chart on the Let’s Go Flying website.

Do you have a question about flying? Ask a pilot! Call 800/872-2672 or send an e-mail.

End of the Road - I mean - Runway
By Kristen SeamanWell, it’s been about three months since I last blogged. It’s been a whirlwind, and I apologize for the extensive post before you, but I promise it has a happy ending. About a month ago, my instructor informed me she had a date in mind for my checkride. Then reality set in. I had exactly 3.5 weeks to prepare, and the thought terrified me. I hadn’t yet flown my full 10 hours of solo time that is required, hadn’t had many successful short and soft field takeoffs and landings, nor had I practiced crosswind landings on more than one occasion.

My biggest concern, however, was preparing for my oral exam, which would be a 1-2 hour quizzing session right before my actual flight test. We started with one hour study sessions before work, covering a new set of topics every day. I could get the information to stick for one day, but didn’t feel that I was retaining a whole lot. Read More>>

My Flight Training Story
By David GiannaGreetings - I am high-time student working towards a private pilot certificate. Like many people, I have had to endure many obstacles and have had to postpone or delay my training numerous times. I have trained in a Cessna 172, spent some time in Piper Cherokee and Archer aircraft, and even flew Schweizer sailplanes (gliders) as part of my primary training. My obstacles were many: lots of travel time for work, building a new home, adoption of children, financial issues, working abroad, weather, even a plane incident that destroyed my primary trainer. Presently, I fly with a flying club based in Poughkeepsie, NY. Here is my story. Read More>>

Aviation Calendar of Events

Airports all across the United States offer weekend activities, from pancake breakfasts and barbecues to car and air shows. Find out what's going on in your area. You can search by city, state, or geographic region.

An Instructor's Introduction to Simulation Training
Using simulators for flight training can have tremendous benefits, from lowering costs to avoiding weather delays. On Tuesday, January 8th, flight instructors are welcome to learn how to increase productivity by viewing live demonstrations of simulation training. The event will take place at Precision Flight in Mustang, OK and is also sponsored by the local FAA Safety Team. Registration information can be found here.

38th Annual Cable Air Show and Car Show
The first air show of the year will kick off January 12th at Cable Airport in Upland, CA. The air show will feature aerobatics by Rob Harrison “The Tumbling Bear,” Warbirds, Just in Time Skydivers, the Freedom Parachute Team, RC Planes, and more. Cable Airport is the world’s largest family-owned, public-use airport. The car show will showcase vehicles from 1970 and earlier. Arrival/departure procedures, car show entry information, and ticketing details can be found on the website.

Midwest Aviation Conference & Trade Show
If you have a passion for aviation and will be in the St. Louis area January 26th and 27th, be sure to attend the Midwest Aviation Conference &Trade Show. View products and services from aviation businesses, schools, and local organizations. The “Super Safety Seminar” will feature seventeen-year National Accident Prevention Counselor Cathe Fish, as well as Congressman Sam Graves. If you haven’t started flight training, you can attend the 4th Annual Learn To Fly/Youth Aviation Seminar. More information can be found here.

Pilots love to take photos, and they love to share them with other pilots. Now you can upload your flying photos to our online gallery, “Air Mail.” Share your special aviation images, or view and rate more than 7,000 photos (and growing). Photos are put into rotation on the AOPA home page!

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